Ports of Venice and Chioggia: 1,442 companies and 6.5% of regional GDP

Ports of Venice and Chioggia: economic weight and cultural programme

A study by Cgia di Mestre, presented at Ca' Corner, provides an updated snapshot of the Venice and Chioggia port system. The findings underline the ports' role as logistical and industrial hubs and as integrated platforms connected to the local territory.

• Area: about 2,500 hectares.
• Infrastructure: 22 km of quays, 65 km of rail network, 40 km of road network; total infrastructure value approximately €6.4 billion.
• Active companies: 1,442 businesses across a wide range of activities.
• Production value: around €15 billion; overall impact (direct, indirect and induced) reaches €44.2 billion.
• Contribution to regional GDP: 6.5% (about €13 billion); roughly €19 billion at the national scale.
• Employment: 26,898 direct workers; total including the supply chain involves 218,853 people.
• 2025 traffic: 26.2 million tonnes (+5.1%), 533,000 TEU (+11.2%), 3,235 ships, 735,000 passengers (+4.7%).
• Cargo mix: unitised goods 41.7%, dry bulk 31.6%, liquid bulk 26.7%.

Alongside economic indicators, the programme “The Port for the Territory” aims to strengthen the relationship between ports and communities through cultural and educational initiatives and the opening of port spaces. Partners mentioned include the Biennale di Venezia, Ca' Foscari University, IUAV, the Foundation Venice World Capital of Sustainability and other local institutional bodies.

Matteo Gasparato, president of the Northern Adriatic Sea Port Authority, described the system as "modern, dynamic and resilient" and announced a new brand to tell the economic, cultural and identity story of the Ports of Venice. The stated goal is to position the port as an integrated resource for the city, promoting investment, ecological transition and technical solutions for redeveloping hinterland areas in coordination with businesses and institutions.

The study affirms the port's strategic role in generating economic value and cultural opportunities, reinforcing the link between the sea and the territorial identity of the Lagoon.